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Proper Printer Maintenance: Extend the Life of Your Printer, Lower the TCO

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Do you follow the routine maintenance schedule on your car? Do you go to the dentist twice a year for a cleaning and check-up? With everything going on in your life, it’s easy to overlook recommended care. If your car is running fine and your teeth don’t hurt, there’s no urgency for those check-ups, right? The downside is that, by ignoring preventive care, you risk the damage that can occur from this negligence. The same holds true for your barcode printer. Proper printer maintenance will extend the life of your printer and lower the total cost of ownership (TCO).

Printer printing a barcode in a warehouse

When dirt, debris, dust, and oozing adhesive build up inside your thermal printer, you’ll see the result: poor quality printing and printer jams. When this happens, your printer might already be damaged. The printhead—the most expensive part of a thermal printer—is very sensitive and easily damaged.

Get Proactive with Your Printer Care Maintenance

Proactive Printhead Cleaning Maintenance with a Thermal Printhead Cleaning Pen

Take a proactive approach to printer maintenance. Schedule a printer cleaning every time you change the ribbon on a thermal transfer printer or every other time you change the roll on a direct thermal printer. Gain the rewards for conducting this routine maintenance on a regular schedule.

  • Eliminate repair costs that result from a dirty printer.
  • Extend the printhead’s life and reduce the printhead replacement frequency and cost
  • Reduce the cost of downtime and media for reprinting
  • Decrease sensor errors.
  • Minimize media jams
  • Avoid the damage caused by workers who try to fix the jammed or dirty printer.

Tips for Routine Printer Cleaning and Maintenance

Tips to keep a Printer clean in the Warehouse

You can clean your thermal printer quickly and easily. The process removes build-up from the printhead, label path, and ribbon path. Before you clean the printer, select “Diagnostic Mode” and print a test label to see if the printhead is printing properly. Use this as a gauge to measure the print quality after the cleaning.

Then, follow these routine printer cleaning tips:

  • Turn off the power before attempting to clean the printer or open the printhead.
  • Remove any jewelry that could scratch the printhead or fall inside the printer (e.g., ring, watch, bracelet).
  • Never touch the printhead or sensors. Use a small, soft, clean brush to remove the dust.
  • Use only a cleaning solution that is approved by the manufacturer.

Purchase a Printer Cleaning Kit from Avalon Integration Today!

Printer Cleaning Kit from Zebra and Avalon Integration

You can purchase a printer cleaning kit from Avalon Integration. Keep a supply on hand so it’s always available when the maintenance is due. Proactive care prevents reactive repair!

If you need repair or service for your data collection hardware, talk to us at Avalon Integration. We partner with industry leaders, like Zebra, and support the products and solutions we sell with expert knowledge and technical expertise.

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Get Free Zebra Printheads with the Printhead Protection Program

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You expect your thermal printer to keep working reliably, with little or no effort, other than reloading the media and replacing the ribbon as needed.  But if you want to gain the best return on investment and the lowest total cost of ownership for your barcode printer, you’ve got to put more into it—more thought and more quality. When you do, you earn free Zebra printheads with the Printhead Protection Program from Avalon Integration.

Yes, free. And for as long as you own your Zebra printer.

Maintain and Save Money with the Printhead Protection Program

Do The Right Thing with Zebra Supplies by utilizing the Printhead Protection Program

Avalon Integration and Zebra want to encourage you to “do the right thing” when it comes to maintaining your thermal printer. That means regular cleaning and using only quality supplies. Inferior printer supplies—like ribbons, cards, and labels—can damage your printer. The media leaves behind dust, dirt, and debris that builds up. The result is poor print quality and a ruined printhead. Then, you pay for repairs, replacement, and the time and cost of downtime and reprinting. So, your “savings” on these bargain printer supplies are actually costing you more money.

Genuine Zebra Supplies for Consistent Quality

Genuine Zebra Supplies offered through the Printhead Protection Program

Genuine Zebra supplies are manufactured according to very stringent and uncompromising standards and processes. This adherence guarantees consistent quality, from one run to the next. Because Zebra designed and engineered the thermal barcode printers, they are the experts at knowing the best supplies to run them. So, when they offer to support that promise with free printhead replacements for life, Avalon Integration confidently recommends genuine Zebra supplies.

Zebra Printhead Protection Program Is Free to Enroll

Free to Enroll to the Printhead Protection Program

The Zebra Printhead Protection Program from Avalon Integration is free to enroll. There’s no membership fee. Just agree to feed your Zebra thermal printer ONLY genuine Zebra supplies and we will give you free printhead replacements when you need them—which will be less often because these quality consumables will prevent the premature wear and tear that the bargain supplies cause

Join the Printhead Protection Program and you can eliminate printhead replacement costs from your budget. You’ll also extend the life of your Zebra printer, which lowers the total cost of ownership. Contact Avalon Integration, checkout Avalons technical support blog or click here to enroll.  

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Budgeting for OS migration from Windows

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We’ve been discussing enterprise operating systems, as the deadlines approach for Microsoft ending support for Windows Embedded Handheld and Windows CE. The great OS Migration started when Microsoft made the announcement in 2016 that it would no longer provide security updates for their operating systems by 2020. Businesses that have been relying on Microsoft’s OSs for their rugged handheld devices have had to choose between staying with an unsupported operating system, rewriting their apps to fit another version of Windows, or choosing to move to another OS. While there’s naturally a lot of discussion about which choice is best, let’s talk about budgeting for OS migration from Windows.

How will the change in your operating system impact your investment in devices, both legacy, and upgrades?

Start by Assessing Your Legacy Devices for OS Migration

Take Stock of your Legacy Devices including the TC8000 and the MC3300

Are they a few years old (or older)? If so, you’re ready for an upgrade. The evolution of the rugged mobile technology in recent years has delivered a wealth of benefits that command your attention. The productivity factor has escalated. Your workforce can be more efficient with their time, which contributes to a rapid return on investment in your new technology. The Zebra TC8000 all-touch mobile computer, for example, has been proven to boost productivity by 14%. That’s the equivalent of adding one hour per worker per shift. The factor that bonuses across your workforce to determine how this investment in new technology benefits your business. The Zebra MC3300 mobile computer offers the flexibility of four different form factors so you can customize it your ergonomic needs—which enhances productivity as well. This mobile computer also features the combination of three scan engines, three keypads, and three tiers of functionality, so it fits the way you need to use the device, not the other way around.

Create an Inventory of Your Current Use Cases for OS Migration

Take Stock of Your Current use case

Identify how you use the devices as well as the desired results. For example, for barcode scanning, do you require an extended reach? Are you scanning in cold storage where the workers wear gloves and the barcodes could be covered with frost? Do you do a high volume of scanning with a mobile computer or is it purely a secondary feature? You might likely discover that a “one-size-fits-all” approach for rugged mobile devices doesn’t fit your needs. Today’s more advanced technology presents a broad array of purpose-built devices that are drilled down to specific tasks and functions.

Prioritize Your Needs for Functions and Features Investment for OS Migration

Prioritize Your Needs for the OS Migration from Windows

Prioritize your needs so that you understand the functions and features that require investment. Be sure to forecast anticipated uses so that you can future-proof your investment. This will help you focus on the hardware that will best achieve your goals. You can use these guidelines to avoid purchasing less or more than you need. These steps will help you profile your hardware needs. You might have some legacy devices that are still highly functional in your work environment. If they run on an unsupported version of Windows, are you comfortable with the lack of security updates?

Establish a Timeline

Establish a timeline for your Migration that's best for your Warehouse

The OS migration will occur over a period of time. You’re not going to pull the plug one day and be up and running the next. You need a strategy to deploy the new operating system and integrate the new devices. Avalon Integration can help here. We specialize in enterprise systems integration and we’re experienced in the challenges of OS migration. We’ll apply our expertise to develop a strategy with you, acquire the hardware, and implement the transition in an efficient, effective process. Talk to us about making the move to an operating system and enterprise computing hardware that will support your business in the long run and deliver greater results.

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OS Migration: The Logistics of Making the Transition

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In the last post, we talked about the security issues of converting to Android from Windows Embedded Handheld and Windows CE. With Microsoft no longer offering support for these mobile operating systems, businesses are facing a difficult decision. Where to go with their enterprise OS and the logistics of making the transition.

With this shift, you’re faced with several options:

  1. Continue with Windows, without security updates.
  2. Rewrite your apps to fit another version of Windows.
  3. Move to a different operating system, like Android or iOS.

MX Logistics for the Android Family

At Avalon Integration, we looked at these choices. The first leaves you wide open to security breaches, so let’s not even consider it. The second is doable if you’re a loyal Microsoft user. However, Microsoft has already proven that it’s not committed to the enterprise user. Perhaps now is the right time to transfer your loyalty.

Zebra and Android Mobile Computer Family

Rather than commit resources to rewrite apps, allocate them to managing the transition to a strong operating system that is designed to work at this heightened level? Yes, Apple has a closed platform that is renowned for tight security, but it also has a limited developer community.

Transition to Android with 78% Mobile Devices Currently in Use

Android Mobile Devices Currently Used

Android, on the other hand, is already running on 78% of the mobile devices currently in use (compared to 15% with iOS). Among the rugged device users, 54% of newly introduced devices come installed with Android. This OS has a robust developer ecosystem, giving you a broader choice of apps and development opportunities. With Zebra’s Mobility Extensions (Mx), Android is now an enterprise-class operating system. Mx Security strengthens the security with government-grade AES-256 data encryption and a host of other security features not available on consumer-grade Android. More importantly, as you approach the end of life for your current Windows OS, you need to look at the ease of transitioning to a different operating system. How complicated is it? Will you need additional IT staff hours? What do you do with your legacy devices?

Transition to Android for the Most Developer Resources

Android Most Developer Resources Working on a Zebra Tablet

First of all, Android has the most extensive app and developer resources out there. App developers are plentiful, and Avalon Integration specializes in systems integration, so we can guide you through this step.

Android Transition Made Simple

Android OS Made Simple

Zebra’s Mx also incorporates device and app management tools that simplify the deployment. Mx MDM works with your current mobile device management system to deliver the compatibility that eases the transition. Mx MDM makes it easy to remotely stage, update, troubleshoot, lock, wipe, and monitor the Android-based Zebra devices in your network. These services are always running in the background of the devices, so your IT team stays connected with the activity.

Mx Mam Gives You Full Control

Android OS Gives You Full Control

Mx MAM enables silent install, remotely, from your central console. You don’t need to disrupt workflow. In the long-term, Mx MAM provides lockdown features that allow you to develop a list of authorized apps that can be downloaded and run on your devices. You can exclude personal apps and avoid malware—which are even bigger disruptions to the workflow!

Zebra’s purpose-built rugged mobile devices come pre-installed with Mx. Avalon Integration is ready to help you move through the OS migration to arrive at a long-term solution. Talk to us to get started.

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OS Migration: Android Conversion and the Security Debate

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Two years ago, users of Windows Embedded Handheld and Windows CE learned that Microsoft was going to pull the plug on these operating systems. No more security patches. No more updates. The end of life has already begun, with support for Windows Embedded CE 6.0 coming to a close on June 10, 2018. The remainder will fade into history over the next two years. The OS migration began as soon as the announcement was made. Those considering the options have looked at Android conversion. The security debate, however, concerned some potential users.

Android is an open-source platform, while the alternative, iOS, is closed. Skeptics worry about the security of Android. Encryption was an issue. It was slow, even on business-grade, high-end devices. Malware risk concerned decision-makers as well. The file-sharing left Android users open to phishing attacks and more.

Mobility throughout the workplace with Zebra Handheld Mobile Computers

These are valid points. But here’s another consideration: Of the 1.2 billion mobile devices currently in use, Android runs on 78% of them. Apple’s iOS runs on 15% of devices, with the minuscule 7% split primarily between BlackBerry and Microsoft. Android dominates here, but enterprise users have still been hesitant about its value as a business operating system. Clearly, Android is the dominant OS. If only these nagging issues could be resolved.

Extensions Zebra Mobile Handheld Computers

Then, Zebra stepped in. The manufacturer of some of the industry’s most rugged, user-friendly, and high-performance enterprise mobile computers recognized the need to overcome Android’s barriers to broader acceptance by business users across industries. Zebra developed Mobility Extensions (Mx), which resulted in what they call “fortified Android”. Mx has strengthened Android in a variety of ways:

  • Security
  • Mobile device management (MDM)
  • Mobile application management (MAM)
  • Data capture
  • Wireless connectivity

Government-Grade Encryption Maximizes Security

Mobility Extensions Government Grade Security

From the security standpoint, this fortified Android uses a government-grade, AES-256 encryption. Mx lets you select the data you want to encrypt—like sensitive data. The result is that encryption doesn’t slow down the device’s performance since it’s not encrypting every bit of information.

Transferrable Encryption Keys Ensures Security

Mobility Extensions Encryption for all Zebra Handheld Mobile Computers

Standard Android generates and secures the encryption keys on the device. But if you need to swap the device or give data to another user, the key doesn’t go along with the SD card. With Mx, the encryption keys are generated and stored in a centralized location. IT has control and can remotely provision another device with the encryption keys necessary to gain access.

Expanded Lockdown

Mobility Extensions Lockdown Security

Mx enables the lockdown of users from a device, an app, or even just a feature. You can limit users to one line-of-business application. When they turn it on, the device automatically launches and locks into that specific application from an enterprise home screen. You protect the network from unauthorized access while enhancing productivity by eliminating distractions. You can also lock down specific features and peripherals, like disabling the USB port so sensitive information can’t be downloaded to a thumb drive—or unauthorized apps can’t be uploaded in the same way.

Reliable Security Updates

Mobility Extensions - Reliable Security Updates

When Microsoft ended support for Windows CE/Embedded security patches, it effectively ended the enterprise use. Without ongoing patches to protect the network, you’re open to all sorts of breach risks. Zebra is staying on top of the security updates, with an internal team that monitors all reported Android security issues. DARN (Discover, Assessment, Remediation, Notification) alerts the Zebra Mx users whenever a patch is available. A link makes the upgrade instantly downloadable and IT can deploy it to all enterprise mobile devices with Mx’s MDM application.

MX comes pre-installed on all Zebra mobile devices. They’re ready to run right out of the box. Avalon Integration sees this fortified Android as a secure solution as you ponder OS migration. Stay tuned to learn more about the logistics challenges and solutions for the move to a different operating system.

Talk to us at Avalon Integration to get a better understanding of how you can get the most out of Mobility Extensions (Mx) today!

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Are reverse logistics clogging up your supply chain?

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Many businesses put more emphasis on streamlining outbound shipments than returns because they view the movement of outgoing orders as a revenue stream. The returning shipments are seen as a cost. As a result, a sluggish process for reverse logistics is a profitability drain on the company, when, in fact, it could be used as an opportunity to strengthen the bottom line. Reverse logistics account for approximately 7 to 10% of the cost of goods, so addressing inefficiencies here can deliver a strong boost to your bottom line!

How Can You De-Clutter the Process of Reverse Logistics?

Reverse Logistics - Declog the Warehouse

Are reverse logistics clogging up your supply chain? If so, it’s time to take a look at how you can de-clutter the processes. Avalon Integration works extensively with manufacturers and warehouses, and we see some common factors that need attention.

Outbound shipments have a high priority since they reflect sales and have deadlines. 

Reverse Logistics - High Priority Customers Means Good Productivity

Customers are expecting their shipments and don’t tolerate delays. Returns are handled with less priority. However, there’s still a customer on the other end of this inbound shipment—and it could be an unhappy customer—so efficient and accurate processing of the return leads to increased customer satisfaction. There should be a dedicated team of workers who work solely on reverse logistics, not delegating your shipping staff to this job when they are available. Equip them with mobile technology to expedite the job and increase accuracy. A rugged handheld computer enables a worker to scan the barcode on the shipment to record the order number and customer. Then, the returned items are scanned, instantly updating the customer’s account because the device is linked to the enterprise’s backend system. In addition, the inventory count is updated with the numbers from the returned merchandise.

Good Equipment Means Productive Workers With Reverse Logistics

Reverse Logistics - Productive Workers

An enterprise-grade mobile computer gives your warehouse workers the ability to also record the condition of the goods when they’re returned. Mark them to be restocked, refurbished, or discontinued. The device is equipped with a camera, so any damage can be recorded when the box is opened. You can focus intently on getting their orders to them quickly, but if your reverse logistics delays the processing of their returns, you compromise that positive relationship. This real-time visibility certainly increases customer satisfaction on both ends of their orders. The dedicated, advanced reverse logistics system reduces waste and delays. Your inventory counts become accurate and up-to-date, preventing mistakes in re-ordering that lead to overstocks. When you immediately record returned merchandise, you avoid unnecessary replenishment.

Avalon Integration develops technology solutions to support an efficient reverse logistics process. Our partnership with Zebra gives us the power to provide the devices that reflect the latest advances, like best-in-class scanning, enterprise-class device management and security, and rapid processing and connectivity. Talk to us to learn more about improving your reverse logistics.

 

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Zebra MC3300 Mobile Computer: Just When You Thought You Couldn’t Get More from Your Rugged Handheld

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There was a time when the term “rugged mobile computer” meant a heavyweight, cumbersome device. Then Zebra stepped up and changed all that. They created mobile computers that looked like smartphones and tablets but performed way above those limited standards. We’ve become accustomed to a higher grade of performance, durability, and functionality from Zebra, and they’ve continued to meet our expectations. Now, just when you thought you couldn’t get more from your rugged handheld, Zebra launches the MC3300 mobile computer.

The MC3300 Mobile Computer is more versatility.

MC3300 Versatility - Built for Large Warehouse and Small Businesses

The MC3300 Mobile Computer gives you four ways to configure the device: pistol-grip, turret style with rotating head, and both a straight shooter 0º and 45º scan. No matter how you need to grip this device, you can choose the ergonomics to fit. In addition to these choices, you have the option of three scan engines, three keypads, and three levels of functionality.

More data capture.

MC3300 Mobile Computer Scanning in a Warehouse

This new Zebra mobile computer presents the broadest scanning range of any device in its class. Grab barcodes from as close as 3 inches and as far away as 70 feet—even barcodes that are scratched, dirty, damaged, or covered with shrinkwrap.

More app efficiency.

Scanning in a Grocery Store with the help of App Efficiency

The Ivanti Velocity platform is pre-loaded on the MC3300, allowing you to run terminal emulation (TE) apps immediately, with no back-end modification required, and no additional cost, because it’s pre-licensed.

More durability.

MC3300 Mobile Computer is Durable enough to handle anywhere you need to go

The MC3300 has been tested and survived more than 1,000 tumbles from 3.2 feet and drops on concrete from up to 5 feet. The IP54 sealing also protects the handheld from dirt, dust, and spills. The Corning Gorilla Glass provides the touchscreen with unmatched scratch protection.

More communication.

Scanning and Talking using the MC3300 in a Warehouse

Use your mobile computer like a PBX handset or walkie-talkie. Add Zebra’s Wi-Fi-enabled Workforce Connect and push-to-talk on the MC3300 mobile computer to connect with anyone, from anywhere in your facility. The device supports 802.11ac so your connections are fast.

MC3300 Mobile Computer has more productivity.

Scanning and Talking in a SuperMarket

Keep your workers focused on work, not play. Zebra’s Mobility DNA makes it easy to choose which apps and features can be accessed on the device.

MC3300 Mobile Computer has more enterprise power.

Scanning to the Max Power in a Super Market

Zebra’s Mobility Extensions (Mx) elevate Android to an enterprise-grade operating system. That means your MC3300 mobile computer comes pre-loaded and ready to run—with greater security, data capture, connectivity, and device management. In addition, Zebra future-proofs with LifeGuard for Android, a guarantee that the OS will be supported with security updates for 10 years from the release date. You can migrate to Android with confidence.

The MC3300 is the next generation up from the MC3200, and it is compatible with most of the MC3200’s accessories, giving you more ease in the transition to the new rugged handheld.

Are you ready to elevate your mobile computing power to gain the efficiencies of the Zebra MC3300 mobile computer? Talk to us at Avalon Integration to reap the rewards in operational efficiency and ROI.

 

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Standard versus long-range barcode scanner: Which do you need?

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The barcode scanner is designed to capture, verify, and transmit the encoded data on the barcode with near-flawless accuracy. Management relies on the real-time visibility afforded by automated data collection. So, while it’s easier to just hold onto your legacy devices, the money you think you’re saving could be offset by the comprised productivity. When you factor in the number of scans each worker reads on an average shift and the time it takes to grab each one, making the move to a purpose-built barcode scanner could produce surprisingly rapid ROI. Look at standard versus long-range barcode scanners. Which do you need for the most efficiency?

Differences Between Standard and Long-Range Scanners

Long Range Scanner Scanning Barcodes from a distance

Long Range Scanner Scanning Barcodes from a distance

A standard range barcode scanner will easily grab barcodes as close as a fraction of an inch or as far away as a few feet. It’s a great solution for industries like retail and healthcare and doing inventory where the items are in close range, like office supplies.

Other environments—including warehouses, plant floors, docks, yards, and terminals—benefit from a long-range scanner, which can read a barcode as far away as 70 feet. If you have products high on a rack or not easily reachable, along- or extended-range barcode scanner will prevent your workers from dangerously trying to scale obstacles in order to read a barcode. You’ll also save the time it takes for them to capture that scan.

Can we use a long-range barcode scanner for other purposes?

Long Range and Standard Scanner

One of the questions that Avalon Integration’s customers often ask, is “Can we use a long-range barcode scanner for other purposes?”. With the right technology, the answer is, “Yes.” The scanning engine in an extended-range scanner allows for a broad read range, which can span a few inches to a long distance. The Zebra LS4308-ER reads from as close as .25” to as far away as 45 feet. Zebra’s corded DS3608-ER and cordless DS3678-ER have a read range from 3 inches to 70 feet. These two models are part of the Ultra-Rugged Series so you also get the most durable scanners on the market!

The scanning distance is a key factor in your choice of barcode scanner. You should also add in the value of the ease of use, ergonomics, battery life, and scanning performance. If you often encounter barcodes that are hard to read, look for a device that can handle scratched, smudged, and dirty barcodes. Some scanners can capture barcodes that are covered with frost or under shrinkwrap, so be sure you understand the functionality of the barcode scanners you’re considering.

Avalon Integration has more than 20 years of experience dealing with automated data collection. We know the technology and what it can do. Talk to us to determine the right choice for your applications.

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Mobilizing the loading dock gains critical efficiency

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The loading dock is the gateway to your warehouse. Establishing a high level of operational efficiency here can reduce errors throughout the facility. Mobilizing the loading dock gains critical efficiency and accuracy that delivers strong ROI.learned”? Mobility is a must to expedite tasks like cross-docking without compromising accuracy. A trailer that’s sitting in a holding pattern is a waste of time and money. To get the right products on the right trailer in the right order, your workers need a real-time view of the activity. In this busy and demanding environment, rugged enterprise technology enables quick decision-making without interruptions like device or battery failure. Shipping and receiving also rely on moving inbound and outbound shipments with a steady flow through the loading dock. Bottlenecks create delays as well as downtime, cutting deeply into your operational efficiency.

Enterprise computing: Smart + Rugged
ET50 in Tough Environment Efficiency

An enterprise-class tablet delivers a high level of computing power with the durability you need to survive the tough environment of a loading dock and yard. The expanded real estate of a tablet enhances the visibility and ease for the user. An enterprise tablet, like the Zebra ET50, incorporates a higher level of data capture, longer battery life, and more robust connectivity, along with the processing power to drive complex applications.

The TC8000 all-touch mobile computer revolutionized enterprise computing when Zebra launched it last year. The lightweight design features a single-plane user interface that eliminates the tilt-and-verify action, which saves time and reduces wrist strain. This high-powered mobile computer comes pre-loaded with Mobility Extensions (Mx), an enterprise-class Android operating system, meaning it’s a significant upgrade for security, connectivity, data capture, and device management—ideal for business use.

The mobile workforce efficiency
VC80 3600 ZT600 QLN Efficiency

Material handling vehicles, like forklifts, should be equipped with an onboard mobile computer that has fast connectivity to keep up with the activity. The Zebra VC80 mounts can grab Internet connections quickly and has the processing power to deliver real-time updates—even in extreme temperatures. You can also add a heated keyboard if you need one.

For any and all verification tasks at the loading dock, you need barcode scanners that keep up with the steady movement of large containers. Workers also benefit from devices that handle long-range scanning in any weather conditions. Zebra’s 3600 Series Ultra-Rugged Scanners are designed specifically to handle this tough task. No other scanners can stand up to the snow, ice, water, dirt, dust, and heat like the aptly-named Ultra-Rugged devices. Scan up to 70,000 barcodes on a single charge. With the long-range option, capture barcodes up to 70 feet away.

You can also increase efficiency at the loading dock by generating barcode labels on demand. Track the shipments with more accuracy and add information as needed. Zebra’s rugged mobile printers, like the QLn series, are lightweight but deliver heavy-duty performance. For printing volume barcode labels and shipping labels at the loading dock, an industrial printer, like the ZT600 Series, is encased in metal and engineered to deliver 24/7 performance with ease. Add RFID capability to encode and print passive and active RFID tags that enable even greater efficiency, a distinct advantage for verifying and tracking large containers.

Avalon Integration focuses on meeting the technology needs of today’s warehouses and manufacturing facilities. Contact us to learn how you can gain efficiency and accuracy at your loading dock with customized solutions that handle your specific challenges.

 

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OS Migration: The Cost of Procrastinating

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Microsoft announced that, in 2020, it will discontinue support for Windows CE and Windows Mobile operating systems. Their decision would impact 15 million computers, about 90% of the enterprise computing market. If you’re using either of these operating systems, you have some important choices to make. With the heavy (and still growing) reliance on mobile devices in the workplace, the choice you make for the operating system will impact users, device choices, application accessibility, network security, and the IT time to handle it all. You have invested in legacy devices but remember that the best OS for a situation is important and Migration may be needed. Are you going to see the ROI or will it be written off to “lesson learned”?

What are your options for Migration?
OS Migration Options

You could sit still. Continue using Windows and move up to Windows 10. However, you’ll be running without the support of security patches next year, because Microsoft is also pulling that plugin 2019. It seems clear that Microsoft’s commitment to enterprise mobile computing is tenuous. Don’t commit to a company that isn’t committed to you.

Your next option is to choose a direction for the operating system that will replace Windows CE/Mobile and rewrite your applications to run on the OS of choice. Android and are good options. Google and Apple have proven themselves to be reliable and innovative. Between Android and iOS, they own 99% of the mobile device market share; however, Android dominates the space with 87% worldwide. Android’s open platform makes it more inviting for developers, which has caused concern over security.

In recent years, companies like Zebra have addressed the perceived weak spots in Android’s security. Zebra’s rugged mobile devices come pre-installed with Mobility Extensions (Mx), which elevates the operating system to an enterprise level for security, device management, data capture, and connectivity. Zebra’s rugged handhelds and enterprise tablets are ready to operate in an Android environment and perform at the high levels of reliability, security, and computing power you should expect from your technology.

Do you need to retire your legacy devices now and make the move to new technology?
Android Legacy Device Migration

At Avalon Integration we’ve been looking at the path for this OS migration. It’s not realistic for a company to buy all new devices, so we’re helping our customers to make a gradual transition. Decide on the operating system and look at those devices that are ready for upgrades. But while you’re trying to hold onto those legacy devices, consider that you might not be saving money. A rugged device’s life expectancy is three years, with an average failure rate of only 1% in the first year. By the fourth year, the rate escalates to 8%. That’s not a big number, so maybe you’re fine with the prospect of extending the life of your rugged devices.

What does 1% really mean for Migration?

OS Migration Android Phone

Every percentage point of device failure translates to a 5% increase in your total cost of ownership. By the fourth year, when your failure rate jumps 7%, you can expect a 35% rise in your TCO. Are you actually saving money by procrastinating or merely avoiding the inevitable business decision?

Those four-year-old legacy devices are also using old technology. The speed is slower, the connectivity is weaker, the resolution is probably less, and it may not have the features that today’s mobile devices offer. Every one of these downsides represents a negative impact on your productivity. You’re not maximizing the potential of your workforce. You’re probably also pushing the limits of your IT staff’s effectiveness.

Millions of enterprise users are faced with the OS migration decision. Avalon Integration can give you more insight, evaluate your current situation, and guide you to the strategic transition that will deliver the best results for your company. Talk to us to steer your migration along a smart route.

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